Network of Small Schools Seek Budget Revision for Quality Education

BANGKOK (NNT) - A network of small schools across Thailand has urged the Ministry of Education to revise its budget allocation formula to support these institutions better and focus on community schools’ vital role in the country’s overall educational system.

The Equitable Education Fund (EEF), in partnership with The European Union, ActionAid Thailand, and other associations, recently organized a platform to address the "Elevating the Quality of Small, Remote, and Truly Inclusive Schools" policy. Over 100 directors and teachers from small schools participated, discussing challenges and proposing solutions to improve education quality. Small schools, accounting for nearly half of the country’s schools and serving around one million students, are at the forefront of this effort.

Education Minister Pol Gen Permpoon Chidchob, who attended the event, expressed his support and spent three hours receiving proposals. He acknowledged the crucial role of teachers in this transformation and encouraged their active participation in suggesting improvements. He noted, however, that the transformation should be a collaborative effort involving teachers from various regions.

EEF Manager Kraiyot Phatthrawat highlighted four key policy proposals for "Stand-alone" or protected small schools, often located in isolated areas of islands, mountains, or remote regions. There are about 1,500 such schools within Thailand, some in national parks or reserved forests, requiring special attention and support as they are the sole educational resource in their areas.

By Krajangwit Johjit